Tag Archives: Sandy James

Copycat (The Hunters #1) by Sandy James-a review

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Copycat (The Hunters #1) by Sandy James-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 21, 2021.

Retired FBI agent Dr. Beau Peterson’s strange psychic ability enables him to connect with murder victims after their deaths, a talent that aided him in capturing the infamous Ryland Ripper. Now teaching criminal psychology at a local college, he is asked to work with his former partner, Cody Taylor, on a baffling new case—someone, whom the media dubs “Ripper Junior,” is mimicking the Ryland Ripper.

With each of Junior’s kills, Jordan Stafford falls into a trance, forcing her to see every hideous detail through his eyes. Beau reluctantly accepts her assistance in pursuing the dangerous serial killer, but in a macabre twist of fate, she becomes Junior’s new target. Beau, Jordan, and Cody must utilize all of their skills to prevent her from becoming Junior’s next victim.

••••••

REVIEW:COPYCAT is the first instalment in Sandy James’ contemporary adult THE HUNTERS slightly paranormal, romantic suspense series. This is retired FBI agent turned professor Dr. Beau Peterson, and social worker/student Jordan Stafford’s story line.

WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise including murder and violence, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from third person perspective COPYCAT focuses on the hunt for a serial killer. For close to one year Jordan Stafford has suffered with violent and detailed ‘storms’, as she ‘sees’ in her mind, real time murders of a serial killer. Working on her Masters’ Degree, Jordan will suffer such a ‘storm’ and find herself in the company of her professor Dr. Beau Peterson, a man who has a secret ability of his own. As the killer continues to up his body count, Jordan suffers with each murder until Beau, and his former FBI partner Cody Taylor begin to uncover a possible connection between Jordan and the killer they named Ripper Junior, a killer whose murders copycat two other infamous cases. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Jordan and Beau, and the fall-out when the truth is revealed, and a killer uses his famous DNA to continue his life of crime.

Dr. Beau Peterson and Cody Taylor aren’t surprised by Jordan’s explanation of the ‘storms’ that have been ravaging the woman with whom Beau will fall in love. Beau is able to ‘talk’ to the recently deceased, and in this working together with Cody, our couple begin to see a pattern that may be linked to our story line heroine. Having no recollection about her early years, Jordan undergoes hypnosis, revealing buried secrets from long ago.

The relationship between Beau and Jordan begins as student and professor but quickly turns into something more when Beau finds himself guardian and protector of a woman who has caught the attention of a serial killer.In seclusion together, Beau and Jordan’s relationship becomes more personal, placing Beau and Cody in the direct line of fire. the $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Beau’s former FBI and current investigative partner Cody Taylor, as well as three serial killers that target our heroine for demons of the past.

COPYCAT is a story of betrayal and vengeance, obsession and madness, secrets, lies, friendships, relationships and love. The premise is intriguing and captivating; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are energetic and charismatic. COPYCAT ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Sandy lives in a quiet suburb of Indianapolis and is a high school psychology teacher. She is published through Grand Central Forever Yours and Carina Press as well as indie-published. An Amazon #1 Bestseller many times, she has won numerous awards, including two HOLT Medallions.

Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

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Hideaway (Safe Havens #4) by Sandy James-a review

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Hideaway (Safe Havens #4) by Sandy James-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 14, 2020

In the wake of her father’s murder, Kayla Backer fled New York City and created a new life for herself in the Montana territory. As housekeeper and friend to Drew Pearson and Gideon Young, she has chosen a beautiful spot on their farm to build her own house—her first true home.

Once a respected cattle drive foreman, Drake Meyers lost his job after the payroll he was entrusted with was stolen. Drowning in alcohol and self-pity, he has nowhere left to turn until his skill as a builder lands him a job building Kayla’s house.

When Drew and Gideon travel to Missoula to assist Drew’s widowed mother, Kayla and Drake are left to cope with the treacherous Montana winter alone. Now Kayla must help Drake overcome his alcohol dependency and learn that his life has value, and that he is worthy of her love.

Then her past comes calling

••••••••

REVIEW: HIDEAWAY is the fourth instalment in Sandy James’ adult SAFE HAVENS historical, romance series set in White Pines, Montana. This is Kayla Backer, and Drake Meyers’ story line. HIDEAWAY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Drake was first introduced in book three Redeemed.

Told from dual third person perspectives ( Kayla and Drake) HIDEAWAY follows the building relationship and romance between former cattle driver foreman Drake Meyers, and housekeeper Kayla Backer. Months earlier Drake Meyers lost everything including his reputation when the payroll he was entrusted to deliver was stolen. Fast forward to present day wherein Drake’s reputation continues to deteriorate as his drunken escapades precede his introduction to our story line heroine. Kayla Backer wants a house of her own but when Drew Pearson and Gideon Young, the young men with whom she is currently living, must return to Missoula to help their mother, Drake is hired to ‘assist’ Kayla with building her future home. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Kayla and Drake, and the potential fall-out as Kayla’s past comes looking for revenge.

Kayla Backer is on the run; hiding out in White Pines, Montana but her past has been desperately looking to even a score, and Kayla is determined to run again. Approximately one year earlier, Kayla’s life was destroyed when her father was murdered, and the people responsible are hoping to end her life, as well. Drake Meyers is unable to let go of the anger that has resulted in his life spiralling out of control. Working for and with Kayla Backer, gives Drake hopes for a future, until Kayla’s past threatens everything and more.

The relationship between Kayla and Drake begins acrimoniously as Drake continues to drink to excess. Having suffered enough, Kayla forces Drake to get clean, and in doing so realizes there is more to Drake than the bottom of a bottle. As our couple endure the winter weather of White Pines, Montana, Kayla is drawn to Drake, a man who believes he is not worthy of love or affection. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Ty Bishop and Cassandra Shay (Runaway #2), Caleb Young and Sara Fuller (Redeemed 3), Caleb’s brother Gideon and his partner Drew Pearson, as well as newcomer Brigit Ryan, Marshal Matthew Riley; Gregory Carrington, his mother Chantal, and Chantal’s right hand man Otto.

HIDEAWAY is a story of family, discrimination, retribution and revenge; a story of one man’s struggle to move on from the past, and one woman’s battle between head and heart. The premise is engaging and intriguing; the romance is captivating; the characters are energetic, colorful, broken but recovering.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of books 1-3 of the Safe Havens series

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Can’t Fight The Feeling/ Can’t Let Her Go (Nashville Dreams 2 & 3) by Sandy James-reviews

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CAN’T FIGHT THE FEELING (Nashville Dreams #2 & #3) by Sandy James-reviews

CAN’T FIGHT THE FEELING
Nashville Dreams #3
by Sandy James
Release Date: May 8, 2018
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 8, 2018

In Nashville the men are strong, the women are bold, and love comes to those willing to fight for it.

Russ Green is an expert at keeping people out – physically and emotionally. After a career-ending injury, the former quarterback was lucky to find a place as a bouncer at Words & Music. All he wants to do now is stay out of the limelight – alone. With his background, he’s nobody’s Prince Charming. His life is routine, and he likes it that way. Gym, work, home. No surprises. Until a bar brawl lands him in the emergency room, and in some very capable hands…

Nurse Joslynn Wright found her calling during a childhood bout of leukemia. While the fast-paced ER keeps her adrenaline pumping, it’s nothing compared to being with Russ. Her illness made her cautious, though, and Russ’s closed-off nature certainly doesn’t make things any easier. But she can’t help being intrigued by the contradiction of a burly bouncer who can gently strum a guitar. If she’s learned anything in Nashville, it’s that love may take work, but the rewards can be well worth the effort…

•••••••••••

REVIEW: CAN’T FIGHT THE FEELING is the third instalment in Sandy James’ contemporary, adult NASHVILLE DREAMS romance series focusing on three friends who own and operate Words and Music-a bar in Nashville, Tennessee: Brad Maxwell, Ethan Walker and Russell Green. This is co-owner/ former quarter back Russell “Russ” Green, and ER nurse Joslynn ‘Josie’ Wright’s story line. CAN’T FIGHT THE FEELING can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Josie is best friends with Savannah Wolf (Can’t Walk Away).

Told from dual third person perspectives (Russ and Joslynn) CAN’T FIGHT THE FEELING follows the building relationship between Words and Music co-owner/ former quarterback Russell “Russ” Green, and ER nurse Joslynn ‘Josie’ Wright. Having met months earlier at Savannah and Brad’s wedding Joslyn wasn’t surprised when former quarterback turned bouncer landed in her hospital ER.

Struggling with his personal life, and the fall-out of his father’s rapidly, decreasing health, Russ believes he is in no position to pursue the woman that make his blood sing but pursue he does, only to be shot down on numerous occasions. Joslynn Wright has seen it all, and in the past has suffered her own share of childhood trauma and loss but Russ’ attraction to, and need for Josie, is met with our heroine’s ongoing reluctance to make a commitment, a commitment that pushes the boundaries between friendship and love. Never one to claim ownership or be in a relationship for very long, Josie’s developing friendship and romance with Russ is at odds with her attitude and the emotional fall-out of falling in love. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a fine line between fiercely independent and feminist b*tch, and Joslynn Wright crosses the line on more than one occasion. Unable to let go of the past Joslynn’s need to be self-reliant comes across as a negative component of her character development, and I was less than enthusiastic with my enjoyment of both the character and the story line premise.

We are reintroduced to Ethan’s business partners Russell Green, Brad Maxwell and Savannah Wolf (Can’t Walk Away #1), Ethan Walker and Chelsea Harris (Can’t Let Her Go #2), as well as the introduction of Ethan’s struggling parents Baron and Yvonne Green.

CAN’T FIGHT THE FEELING is a well written, character driven story of family and friendship; struggle and letting go of the past; realization and acceptance. The premise is engaging with some wonderful world building; the characters are colorful, dynamic, frustrating and flawed; the romance is seductive and hot.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Can’t Walk Away
Can’t Let Her Go (see below)
Can’t Fight The Feeling

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

_______________

CAN’T LET HER GO
(Nashville Dreams #2)
by Sandy James
Genre: Adult, contemporary, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 16, 2018

In Nashville the music is louder, the dreams are bigger, and love can bring a cowboy to his knees.

Ethan Walker is Nashville royalty. Born to the King and Queen of Country Music, he’s spent his life trying to escape the spotlight of his parents’ fame, even walking away from his own promising singing career. He’s the kind of cowboy who prefers flannel to flashbulbs, hay fields to hit records, and the solitude of his horse farm to the nightlife along Music Row. The last thing he wants is attention, especially when it comes from country’s latest star…

Chelsea Harris’s meteoric rise up the charts and string of celebrity boyfriends mean that wherever she goes, the paparazzi follow. A duet with Nashville’s favorite son is exactly what her new charity album needs, but when she approaches Ethan, he turns her down flat. To win the camera-shy cowboy over, Chelsea will have to approach him on his terms. Trouble is, the more time she spends on his farm, the more Ethan wants to keep her there

••••••••••

REVIEW: CAN’T LET HER GO is the second instalment in Sandy James’ contemporary, adult NASHVILLE DREAMS romance series focusing on three friends who own and operate Words and Music-a bar in Nashville, Tennessee: Brad Maxwell, Ethan Walker and Russell Green. This is reluctant, former teen singing sensation Ethan Walker, and country singer Chelsea Harris’s story line. CAN’T LET HER GO can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Chelsea and Ethan) CAN’T LET HER GO follows the building relationship between former child star Ethan Walker, and country music celebrity Chelsea Harris. Ethan Walker is the progeny of country music’s hottest couple but when his father tried to outrun the paparazzi, our hero was left an orphan with a great disdain for everything music and celebrity represents. Enter rising country music star Chelsea Harris-the woman with whom Ethan would fall in love. Chelsea is hoping to release a charity album of duets featuring the children of former music stars, and Ethan Walker is her only hold-out. What ensues are the contemptuous relationship between Chelsea and Ethan, and the fall-out when their friendship and association becomes fodder for the tabloid press.

Ethan Walker is content to work on his ranch, and sit behind the bar serving drinks to his friends and customers but Chelsea Harris’ persistence as it pertains to a duet with our story line hero pushes all of Ethan’s buttons including the buttons that stir up too many memories of his parents and the past. His behaviour and reluctance to help is fuelled by the loss of his parents, and a loss of power over his life as a singing star but I have to questions his lack of maturity on too many occasions. Chelsea is determined to release a charity album in honor of her father, who passed away, an album meant to bring awareness and raise funds for cancer research.

The relationship between Chelsea and Ethan begins acrimoniously as Chelsea persists in her attempts to bring Ethan on board. Ethan is determined to remain out of the music business having had to deal with the fall-out of fame and paparazzi at a very young age. The $ex scenes are intimate but mostly implied.

We are reintroduced to Ethan’s business partners Russell Green, Brad Maxwell and Savannah Wolf (Can’t Walk Away #1), as well as introduction of Chelsea’s agent Addie, her mother Betsy , and Chuck Austin, a man who sets out to destroy the building relationship between Ethan and Chelsea.

The world building focuses on two things close to the author’s heart: horses and cancer research. We are up close and personal as Sandy James takes the reader into the world of raising horses, as well as the struggle with which many families have to deal-losing a loved one to cancer.

CAN’T LET HER GO is a story of friendship and family; of betrayal and loss; of letting go of the past and moving forward with life. The premise is engaging and thought-provoking; the romance is hindered by memories of the past; the characters are colorful and charismatic.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Sandy James lives in a quiet suburb of Indianapolis and is a high school psychology
teacher. She owns a small stable of harness racehorses and enjoys spending time at
Hoosier Park racetrack. She has been an Amazon #1 Bestseller multiple times and has
won numerous awards including two HOLT Medallions.

Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

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Can’t Walk Away (Nashville Dreams #1) by Sandy James-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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CAN’T WALK AWAY (Nashville Dreams #) by Sandy James-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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CAN’T WALK AWAY
Nashville Dreams #1
by Sandy James
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance
Release Date: October 10, 2017

Can't Walk Away

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / ibooks / Google /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 10, 2017

In Nashville the stars shine a little brighter, songs sound a little sweeter, and love lasts a lifetime.

Young, rich, and better looking than a man has a right to be, successful songwriter Brad “Hitman” Maxwell was once Nashville’s biggest celebrity. Then a heartbreaking loss and a shocking betrayal caused his light to go out. Now, instead of pouring his soul into song, he pours beers at Words & Music. His bar is the perfect escape–a place to forget his past–until the night she takes the stage…

Savannah Wolf used to dream of becoming Nashville’s hottest star. Now, as a young single mom, she dreams of a steady income and being home to tuck her daughter into bed. So when Brad Maxwell offers her the gig of a lifetime–playing as the headliner at Words & Music–Savannah discovers the best of both worlds. And she refuses to ruin this opportunity by falling for her sexy boss. Except that Brad suddenly starts writing music again… music inspired by her

••••••••••

REVIEW: CAN’T WALK AWAY is the first installment in Sandy James’ contemporary, adult NASHVILLE DREAMS romance series focusing on three friends who own and operate Words and Music-a bar in Nashville, Tennessee: Brad Maxwell, Ethan Walker and Russell Green. This is songwriter Brad ‘Hitman’ Maxwell, and waitress/singer Savannah Wolf’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Brad and Savannah) CAN’T WALK AWAY focuses on the building relationship between Brad Maxwell and Savannah Wolf. Savannah is a twenty-six year old single mother; a singer whose earlier musical career was jettisoned by her former manager, boyfriend, the father of her five year old daughter Caroline, and the man who has destroyed our heroine’s trust with other men Michael Hart. Brad Maxwell, is a struggling song writer, a once popular and chart topping writer who lost his muse when the woman he once loved and lost betrayed his trust and the bonds of their marriage. Hearing Savannah Wolf sing was like a beacon to Brad Maxwell- the call of a long, lost urge to pick up a pen and begin writing anew. What ensues is the quick building love between Brad and Savannah, and the potential fall out when issues of trust make for too many hurdles between our story line couple.

Brad Maxwell’s attraction to Savannah is one of insta-lust/love. He is determined to make Savannah a star but our heroine wants only to earn enough money to buy a house and pay the bills. As Savannah’s star begins to rise, her mounting fame and the paparazzi begin to build walls between our leading couple.

The relationship between Savannah and Brad begins as a business arrangement. Brad makes Savannah the headliner at Words and Music but our heroine struggles with the notoriety as her popularity begins to soar. Brad and Savannah both have issues of trust, and in this, the little secrets and bumps in the road are blown out of proportion throughout the story; they both continue to compare one another to their previous relationship disasters. I struggled with their exaggerated reactions to the ‘small things’, as well as a perceived lack of chemistry between our story line couple. The $ex scenes are intimate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Brad’s friends and business partners- musician Ethan Walker, and Russell Green; Savannah’s over-protective parents Paul and Mary Wolf, and Savannah’s daughter Caroline, as well as Words and Music stage manager Randy. The requisite evil comes in the guise of Savannah’s ex-manager and boyfriend Michael Hart. I am looking forward to Ethan and Russell’s story line.

CAN’T WALK AWAY is a story of second chances, of sorts, for two people who loved and lost, and suffered the humiliation of betrayal in return. The premise is engaging and enjoyable; the romance is seductive; the characters struggled with issues of trust. CAN’T WALK AWAY is a charming and pleasant story line.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

excerpt

 

By the fifth take, Brad was losing his patience.
Had he been wrong in thinking Savannah was something special, something new? He sure as hell didn’t think so.
Then why couldn’t he get her to sing with the passion she’d shown back at Words & Music?
Maybe it was the song. “That Smile” was his first attempt at writing in a long time. Perhaps it wasn’t up to snuff?
No. When Brad had heard Savannah sing it earlier, he’d known he’d written a strong song with a good melody and a catchy beat.
Something was clearly blocking her talent.
“I’m sorry, Brad.” She dropped the headphones from her ears to let them rest around her neck. Then, head bowed, she started shuffling through the sheet music.
He’d never seen her look defeated before, and he didn’t like it. This wasn’t the Savannah who’d been his muse. This wasn’t the woman who brought back his music.
This was…a disaster.
But why?
He watched her closely, trying to find some telltale clue as to what was going on today that had robbed Savannah of the passion and talent he’d counted on. Her hair was braided, the braid an eclectic mixture of blond and blue. A blush tinted her cheeks, and he could hear her nervousness through the quaver in her voice, especially in the last notes of her fifth recording.
Something was definitely wrong, and he was going to have to find a way to fix it. But he couldn’t do that from another room. Even though he could see her, something told him she needed something more personal. Unsure of whether being closer to her would make a difference, he figured it was worth a shot.
Brad started a new recording so he could capture the song if he was able to help her, pushed himself away from the console, and headed to the recording booth with his remote control in his pocket. He pulled the door open and stepped inside.
Savannah glanced up from the music, offering him a wan smile that made his frustration evaporate. She knew something was wrong, too. Maybe if they put their heads together, they could get back the magic.
After pulling a stool beside hers, he sat. Then he gently took off her headphones, plucked the pages from her hands, and placed them back on the music stand. She let her eyes meet his, and he could see her concern.
“We’re going do things a little differently this time,” Brad said, keeping his voice low.
“We are?”
He nodded and scooted closer. Then he wrapped his hand around one of hers. “You’re not going to think about recording.”
“I’m not?”
“Nope. This time you’re just going to sing to me. That’s all.”
Her whole body relaxed, and Brad had to fight the desire to smile.
“Sing to me, Savannah. Just to me. Okay?”
She nodded, and before she could get a chance to think about what he was doing, he pulled a remote from his pocket and began the music playback so that it echoed through the room.
The notes of the intro flowed around them, and he kept her grounded by not allowing her to glance away. When she opened her mouth to sing, he gave her hand a reassuring squeeze and offered her an encouraging smile.
And sing she did. Each delightful note came from deep inside her, and he found himself caught in some kind of spell, the same type she’d woven around him back at Words & Music. He hung on each rise and fall of that delicious voice until the last note echoed through the booth.
The song might have ended, but not the magic. Brad found himself leaning closer, his eyes fixed on her soft, pink mouth. Desire ripped through him as she mimicked his action, drawing ever so slowly closer until he could feel the sweet heat of her breath against his face.
With a groan of surrender, he captured her mouth with his own, giving her no warning as his tongue swept deep inside.
Savannah nearly knocked over her stool when she rose to thread her arms around his neck. She was such a little bit of a thing that he could stay seated and draw her between his outstretched legs without interrupting the kiss. As she moved closer, Brad wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her hard against him.
The kiss turned ravenous, and he realized that he was done fighting this attraction.


 

Sandy James lives in a quiet suburb of Indianapolis and is a high school psychology
teacher. She owns a small stable of harness racehorses and enjoys spending time at
Hoosier Park racetrack. She has been an Amazon #1 Bestseller multiple times and has
won numerous awards including two HOLT Medallions.

Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

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The Seeker by S.J. James-Review and Giveaway

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The Seeker by S.J. (Sandy) James-Review and Giveaway

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THE SEEKER
by S.J.(Sandy) James
Genre: adult, sci-fi, post apocalyptic, romance
Release Date: September 29, 2015

The Seeker

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / KOBO / itunes / ARe

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 29, 2015

Throughout the horrifying months since the alien Vymalns conquered Earth, Kara Michaels has managed to elude capture.

Until now.

She is about to lose hope when she is rescued by Seeker Aiodhan Reil, an elite warrior of Tirios sent to Earth by the Praemons, precognizant children who can predict which Vymalns will threaten their homeworld.

Although intimidated by his strength, Kara is drawn to Aiodhan’s air of mystery. Upon discovering that he is also an alien, she fears that his race will pose an additional threat to Earth’s freedom.

Aiodan’s mission doesn’t include falling in love with a human female or liberating her father from an internment camp. He must find a way to keep his vows and still protect Kara, just as she must put aside her hatred of aliens to allow Aiodhan into her heart. Only then can they work together to rescue humankind from cruel enslavement.

••••••••••

REVIEW: THE SEEKER is a post- apocalyptic, science fiction/paranormal romance where an evil race of lizard-like aliens known as the Vymalns has descended upon Earth. The humans have become nothing more than slaves as the Vymalns set about to destroy what’s left of Earth’s natural resources. Enter Aiodhan- a humanoid male of the Tirios species whose job as a ‘Seeker’ finds our storyline hero caught between doing his job and the human woman with whom he is falling in love.

Aiodhan, along with Pashmar, a fellow female Seeker are sent from Tirios each with a specific assignment but neither one was ever meant to remain on Earth. Aiodhan will meet Kara Michaels when he saves her from an attack by the Vymalns and a relationship between he and Kara will set into motion a series of events that finds our couple in a human encampment close to where the Vymalns have imprisoned Kara’s father and several other human slaves.

The relationship between Kara and Aiodhan is one of immediate attraction. Aiodhan is a beautiful, over protective, alpha Tirios warrior, and Kara, a human female nurse, is about to become his intended mate but first our leading couple must defend themselves against attacks by the Vymalns, and the prejudicial specieism of Kara’s fellow humans and Aiodhan’s friend Pashmar. The $ex scenes are intimate; there are no over the top graphic erotic $ex scenes.

There are a number of secondary and supporting characters including Kara’s brother Kevin and her father-a veterinarian –who has been commanded by the Vymalns as their resident physician. We are introduced to the survivors at the camp-several of whom have specific talents and jobs –that are reminiscent of military troops preparing for battle. Aiodhan will find himself protector of two human children who have prophesized the upcoming battles and threats to the survivors.

The world building is very reminiscent of ‘The Walking Dead’ especially as it pertains to the prison, the hierarchy of positions within the camp, and some of the characters whose personalities rival some of the cast of TWD. That is not to say there are any ‘walkers or zombies’ but the storyline energy and some of the scenarios are familiar.

THE SEEKER is an entertaining storyline with colorful characters and animated personalities. The romance between Kara and Aiodhan is loving and sensitive; there are no overt erotic scenarios or questionable alien rituals. The action scenes are limited as it pertained to the take down of the ‘internment camp’, and the encounters with the Vymalns are few and far between. I did have a couple of issues with the story especially the lack of background information and history of the alien invasion. Although THE SEEKER is a work of science fiction, I need answers and explanations as to the how and why-the reality is in the believability and I need to believe.

There are several characters with potential stories, and the Vymalns still remain a threat throughout the world. Pashmar’s storyline is next.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author Black and Min

Sandy JamesFollow Sandy at : Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

My income tax return says that I am a teacher. I had originally intended it to say “lawyer,” but romance, marriage, and motherhood set my life on a different course.

I’ve been married to Jeff James since 1983. Even after all these years, he is still the love of my life. Jeff and I have two grown children who make us proud every day.

My husband and I share another strong and wonderful interest that is not only a great part of our day-to-day lives but has also become a running theme throughout some of my books. We own a small racing stable of Standardbred Harness horses, pacers to be exact. We have always loved the sport and as our children grew up enough to have their own interests, Jeff looked into what it would be like to own a racehorse. We jumped into the sport with both feet and are loving every minute of it.

As another bit of personal information, I’d like to share that several years ago I was diagnosed with lupus. I know that there are others out there who either have had the same diagnosis or know someone who has. I’m sharing this because I want to encourage you all that chronic illnesses do not have to keep you down and out of the swing of life. I still teach, still work with my horses, have a wonderful family life, and am still able to spend hours at my laptop writing on my latest book.

I am blessed to be leading a life full of the things I like to do and people I love.

giveaway

S.J.(Sandy) James is offering an ecopy of THE SEEKER to THREE (3) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please LIKE and Follow Sandy James on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on TSU for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway is open internationally

9. Giveaway runs from October 2-6, 2015

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Fringe Benefits (The Ladies Who Lunch #4) by Sandy James-Review & Giveaway

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FRINGE BENEFITS (The Ladies Who Lunch 4) by Sandy James-Review and Giveaway

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Fringe Benefits
The Ladies Who Lunch Series #4
by Sandy James
Release Date: April 21, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Fringe Benefits

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: April 21, 2015

When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. High school teacher Danielle Bradshaw deserves a happily ever after, and the Ladies Who Lunch are determined to deliver Mr. Right.

HOT FOR TEACHER

As the new head of the English department, Dani doesn’t have much time for anything but lesson planning and literature. Romance—or even sex? Forget about it. But then the principal introduces her to last-minute hire Nate Ryan. Finding time to mentor a new teacher won’t be easy, especially when his incredible body and equally disarming charisma are enough to make her heart skip a beat . . .

Nate may be fresh out of school, but he’s confident in his teaching skills—and in his feelings for Dani. But while she’s everything he’s ever wanted, he knows his place on her staff—and his age—may be problematic for his sexy boss. How can he convince her to ignore the gossip mill currently in full swing in the teacher’s lounge and surrender to what’s meant to be?

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: FRINGE BENEFITS is the fourth installment in Sandy James’s contemporary, adult The Ladies Who Lunch romance series focusing on a tight knit group of four friends (and teachers) who meet several times per week for lunch. This is thirty two year old high school English teacher and department head Danielle Bradshaw, and twenty four year old rookie English teacher Nate Ryan’s storyline. FRINGE BENEFITS can be read as a stand alone; all of the previous storyline couples play a significant role throughout the novel and their stories continue to build upon one another.

Told from alternating third person perspectives, FRINGE BENEFITS follows the quick building relationship between Nate and Dani. There is an immediate attraction between Nate and Dani, one that does not go unnoticed by Dani’s fellow Lunch Ladies, as well as the men that they love. Dani has been assigned as Nate’s mentor in the English department, a position that places Dani as Nate’s boss. What ensues is Nate’s pursuit of Dani, and Dani’s attempts to push him away, but there is one problem-Nate is Dani’s new tenant-the man is renting the basement apartment in Dani’s new house. The $ex scenes are intimate and compelling, without the erotic.

All of the previous storyline couples are present. FRINGE BENEFITS fast forwards the series by a couple of years; the families are growing; businesses are thriving; friendship bonds are tighter. We are introduced to Nate’s family-his mother Jackie and step father Mark, as well as his brother Patrick. Nate’s ex girlfriend Kat is the requisite evil and makes another attempt to convince Nate they belong together.

FRINGE BENEFITS is a delightful storyline with engaging and realistic characters. Sandy James blends passion and romance for an encouraging and enjoyable read; a welcome respite for a busy day.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight Black and Yellow

The Bottom Line
The Ladies Who Lunch #1
by Sandy James
Genre: contemporary, romance,
Release Date: May 6, 2014

The Bottom Line

Click here for Sandy’s review of THE BOTTOM LINE

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 6, 2014

When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. Surviving a failed marriage and an illness that almost takes her life, high school teacher Mallory Hamilton needs the Ladies Who Lunch more than ever . . .

After a year of upheaval, Mallory has had her fill of change—with one exception. Her house is a disaster, and she wants it fixed. Hiring a contractor to finish the projects her ex-husband started will help her banish the past so she can return to the life she had before everything went awry. But her contractor is sexy, sweet, and single, which threatens the peaceful, solitary life Mallory has planned for herself.

Ben Carpenter has had a hard time raising his daughter without his ex-wife’s help. His new client’s projects will give him the extra income he needs, not to mention afternoons alone with a gorgeous woman. Though their attraction is undeniable, Ben sees the fear and pain hiding in Mallory’s beautiful eyes. But how can he help her if she won’t let him in? Ben can fix just about anything—but can he fix Mallory’s broken heart?

____________________________

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED
The Ladies Who Lunch #2
by Sandy James

Signed Sealed DeliveredAmazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2014

When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. High school teacher Juliana Kelley tells the Ladies Who Lunch that her life needs an overhaul . . . and gets a whole lot more than she wished for.

Juliana has spent thirteen years in the same teaching job. She’s ready to dive into a new career with both feet . . . when a run-in with the hottest man she’s ever seen knocks her head over heels. But with her failed marriage to a fellow teacher fresh on her mind, Jules can’t afford to lose herself in a relationship—no matter how perfect it may seem.

Connor Wilson has hit rock bottom when he loses his career as a top-notch Realtor because of a large gambling debt. Now, in a small town he finds a fresh start—and a gorgeous redhead who sparks new life into him. Together they start a successful real estate company, but when pleasure sneaks into the business, they’ll have to decide what they can let go . . . and what they can’t live without.

__________________________

SEALING THE DEAL
The Ladies Who Lunch #3
by Sandy James

Sealing The DealBarnes and Noble / KOBO / iTunes / Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 4, 2014

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of SEALING THE DEAL

When Bethany Rogers’s sister dies in combat in Afghanistan, Bethany, a teacher and part-time interior decorator, takes in the nine-month-old daughter her sister left behind. As she struggles with the challenges of raising a young child, she gratefully accepts the help of her fellow Ladies Who Lunch as well as Robert Ashford, her longtime friend and boss at Ashford Homes. Robert is great with kids and has always mentioned wanting a family of his own. Beth soon feels more than gratitude toward her handsome helper, and longs to give in to the growing heat and desire brewing between them. But will loving Robert further complicate her already spinning-out-of-control life? And is he drawn to her, or to the idea of a ready-made family?

 

Giveaway-Black and Yellow

Sandy and her publicist are offering an ecopy (gifted through Netgalley) to FIVE (5) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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8. Giveaway is open internationally

9. Giveaway runs from April 22-27, 2015

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Sealing The Deal (The Ladies Who Lunch #4) by Sandy James-a review

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Sealing The Deal (The Ladies Who Lunch #4) by Sandy James-a review

Sealing The Deal

Barnes and Noble / KOBO / iTunes /
Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 4, 2014

When Bethany Rogers’s sister dies in combat in Afghanistan, Bethany, a teacher and part-time interior decorator, takes in the nine-month-old daughter her sister left behind. As she struggles with the challenges of raising a young child, she gratefully accepts the help of her fellow Ladies Who Lunch as well as Robert Ashford, her longtime friend and boss at Ashford Homes. Robert is great with kids and has always mentioned wanting a family of his own. Beth soon feels more than gratitude toward her handsome helper, and longs to give in to the growing heat and desire brewing between them. But will loving Robert further complicate her already spinning-out-of-control life? And is he drawn to her, or to the idea of a ready-made family?

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SEALING THE DEAL is the third installment in Sandy James’s wonderful adult, contemporary The Ladies Who Lunch romance series focusing on a tight knit group of friends (and teachers) who meet every day for lunch to discuss life, love and growing old. This is home builder and former teacher Robert Ashford and teacher Bethany Rogers’s story. Although Sealing The Deal is the third book in the series it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from third person point of view the premise finds Bethany a new mother. Following the death of her sister Tiffany in Afghanistan, Beth becomes guardian and mother to Tiffany’s nine month old daughter Emma. Never having had children herself, thirty year old Bethany is overwhelmed with the prospect of raising her sister’s child. Without the help of her long time friend and ‘crush’ Robert ( a man almost ten years older), Emma would be lost in a sea of diapers, toys and sleepless nights. Robert’s experience as an uncle comes in handy as Beth begins to traverse the minefield of being a working, single mother to a little girl who has lost so much at such an early age.

The relationship between Robert and Bethany is a friends to lovers storyline. Robert and Beth have always been attracted to one another but have never crossed the line into romance or sex. When Robert makes Beth an offer she cannot refuse, the sparks begin to fly as their attraction to one another passes from friends to lovers. But when Bethany’s adoption plans for Emma hit a major snag in the form of Emma’s biological father, Emma’s displaced anger pushes Robert out of her life –possibly forever. The sex scenes are sensual and seductive. Robert is a man whose love for Emma is both emotional and physical.

The secondary characters include all of the previous storyline couples and, of course, the ladies who lunch-a group of well meaning but oft times over bearing women whose opinion and attitude sometimes push the boundaries of friendship and love. The world building continues as each of our ladies finds love and a happily ever after but not before a crisis will force each woman to look inside herself and see what it is she truly wants-and needs. There are moments of heartbreak and sorrow for our couple as their happily ever after may not be so happy after all.

Sandy James’s THE LADIES WHO LUNCH series is a realistic and passionate look at friendship and love-four friends who love one another and ‘tell it like it is’ –even when the truth hurts-but in the end have one another’s back when the going gets tough. We should all welcome such a friendship in our own lives. SEALING THE DEAL is another spirited and hopeful storyline from the fantastic mind of Sandy James.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Signed, Sealed, Delivered by Sandy James-a review

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SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED (The Ladies Who Lunch 2) by Sandy James-a review

Signed Sealed Delivered

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2014

When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. High school teacher Juliana Kelley tells the Ladies Who Lunch that her life needs an overhaul . . . and gets a whole lot more than she wished for.

Juliana has spent thirteen years in the same teaching job. She’s ready to dive into a new career with both feet . . . when a run-in with the hottest man she’s ever seen knocks her head over heels. But with her failed marriage to a fellow teacher fresh on her mind, Jules can’t afford to lose herself in a relationship—no matter how perfect it may seem.

Connor Wilson has hit rock bottom when he loses his career as a top-notch Realtor because of a large gambling debt. Now, in a small town he finds a fresh start—and a gorgeous redhead who sparks new life into him. Together they start a successful real estate company, but when pleasure sneaks into the business, they’ll have to decide what they can let go . . . and what they can’t live without.

••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED is the second instalment in Sandy James’s adult, contemporary The Ladies Who Lunch romance series focusing on a group of females teachers who meet for lunch every day to discuss life, love and growing old. This is Juliana Kelley and Connor Wilson’s story. Thirty five year old Juliana has been teaching special needs students since graduating from college and it is her turn to step out of her comfort zone and set her sights on something new.

The focus of the storyline is Juliana’s venture into selling real estate. A born sales person, Juliana attends a real estate seminar where she will meet real estate agent Connor Wilson. Following a night of passionate sex, Juliana will walk away without so much as a goodbye. Several weeks later Juliana will come face to face with Connor at a mutual house sale. What ensues is a partnership known as Kelley-Wilson Real Estate and a promise of much more.

The relationship between Connor and Juliana is sensual, sexual and hot. Connor fell in love with Juliana the first night they made love but Connor has a secret that could very well destroy everything he was hoping to build. When Juliana discovers the truth, she isn’t willing to give Connor the benefit of the doubt but things change and Connor will be part of her life whether she wants him to or not.

Sandy James pulls the reader into a romantic storyline where two people forge ahead into a new relationship, a new partnership and a future together. All of the previous storyline characters play a secondary role including Mallory and Ben whom we met in the first instalment The Bottom Line. The Ladies Who Lunch series is the perfect read for a lazy summer afternoon. Each storyline has a happily ever after but getting there will not always be simple or easy. The stories are realistic, passionate and could come from everyday life. Sandy James is an amazing story teller.

Reading Order
The Bottom Line
Signed, Sealed, Delivered
Sealing The Deal(November 2014)

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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